Improve Your Health and #ConnectInRealLife

This summer, my team and I conducted the largest study we’ve ever done on women’s health, asking women across the United States about the issues that affected them the most, touching on issues surrounding their health, relationships, and thoughts about the future. The story of women today is multifaceted and complicated but one of the main takeaways we learned is that strong social connections make a positive impact both in the short-term and in the long run.

In The Dr. Oz Show Health Report, an estimated 60 percent of survey respondents admitted to feeling lonely or isolated frequently. Scientific research has shown that loneliness and a lack of social interaction and community can be just as harmful to one’s health as smoking. One study even estimated that loneliness could cut your life expectancy by nearly eight years. To bring awareness to this important issue and to encourage you – my outspoken readers and viewers – we’re launching the #ConnectInRealLife social media campaign to spread the word about adult loneliness.

If you’re not already on The Regimen and planning out your weekly get-togethers with family and friends, it’s time to reach out to the people in your community who you care about and want to keep in touch with. Set aside time to catch up, try a new activity, exercise, or share a meal together and devote at least 10 minutes every day to improve both your health and the health of your family member or friend. It’s a win-win situation that will increase longevity and boost your happiness simultaneously. Snap a photo of you and your friends and share on social media. Post it on my Facebook page, on Twitter, or Instagram and hashtag it #ConnectInRealLife and soon, we’ll be building a happier, more involved community and inspire others to do the same.